If you are getting ready for your next gig, you want to make sure that you have the right electric drums. Electric drums can bring a whole new dimension to a live performance and create unique sounds that will help set your music apart from others.
Not only do they provide an immense range of sounds, but can also be extremely useful if your band is performing in venues where more subtle percussion instruments won’t work as well.
However, choosing the right electric drum kit for your needs can be tricky – from understanding what features are included on different models, to finding an instrument that fits comfortably in any budget.
What are electric drums and how do they work?
Electric drums are electronic drums that use a digital sampling of acoustic drum sounds to create the percussion track. Rather than needing to mic up an acoustic drum kit, with electric drums you can trigger different sounds (cymbals, toms, etc.) by hitting rubber or plastic pads that correspond to the location of the sound on an acoustic kit.
This means that you can have a much wider range of sounds and even layered sounds at your disposal, and you don’t need to worry about bleed from other instruments in your mix. Additionally, many electric drum kits come with built-in rhythm tracks and sequencing capabilities so you can easily create your own drum tracks without ever needing to touch a traditional drum kit.
Types of electric drums – acoustic or electronic
Acoustic electric drums are instruments that have both an acoustic and an electric component. Acoustic electric drums are similar to regular acoustic drums, but they have a pickup inside them that sends an electronic signal to an amp or PA system.
Electronic drums, on the other hand, are completely electronic and usually have a mesh head instead of a skin head. They also usually come with their own sound module that lets you customize the sounds they make.
How to decide which type is best for you and your music style?
1. Consider your budget – how much are you willing to spend on electric drums?
Electric drums can be a great investment for anyone looking to get into drumming. They’re relatively affordable, and they offer a lot of flexibility when it comes to setting up your drum kit.
That said, it’s important to consider your budget before making a purchase. There are a variety of factors that will affect the price of electric drums, including the brand, the features, and the quality of the materials.
So think about what you need in an electric drum set and how much you’re willing to spend. That way, you’ll be able to find the perfect set for your needs and your budget.
2. What style of music do you want to play with your new electric drums?
There are a few things to consider when choosing the style of music you want to play with your new electric drums. One of the most important factors is the type of music that you want to create.
Different styles of music require different types of drum sounds, and it’s important to choose drums that will allow you to create the sound you’re looking for. If you’re into rock or metal, you’ll probably want something with a heavier sound. If you prefer genres like funk or jazz, go for something with a more subtle tone.
3. What size is best for your needs – small, medium, or large electric drums?
Small electric drums are great for traveling and for people who don’t need a lot of volume. They’re also good for beginners who are just starting out because they’re affordable and easy to learn on.
Medium electric drums are good for intermediate players who need a little more volume than what a small drum can provide. They’re also good for rehearsals and small gigs.
Large electric drums are great for professional players or people who need really big sound. They’re also good for large gigs or venues.
4. How many sounds and voices do you need in your electric drum set-up?
Most electric drum kits come with four to five sounds, which should be more than enough for most users. However, some people like to have more options, and there are a variety of sound expansion modules on the market that can give you access to dozens of different sounds.
As for voices, most electric drum sets come with two voices per sound. So for example, if you have a set with five sounds, you’ll have ten voices. This is usually enough for most people, but if you need more variety you can always purchase an expansion module that gives you access to more voices.
5. Do you want digital or analog sound control in your electric drums kit?
Digital control allows for a wider range of sounds and more precise control over the tuning and timbre of your kit, while analog gives you a warmer, more natural sound.
Ultimately it comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the flexibility and variety of sounds that digital provides, while others prefer the more organic feel of analog. Try out both types and see which one you like better.
